Cuddling is Healthy

Who would not enjoy some cuddling – your partner holding and pampering you.

Showering your partner with affection for 10-minutes regularly is said to boost your mind, body and spirit.

Studies have found that couples who treat each other with hugs and kisses everyday enjoys stronger bond and also increase their chances of staying healthy.

Cuddling is said to release oxytocin in the body, which is responsible for your ‘happy mood’ and keeps you stress-free.

HealthyDunia.com highlights eight health benefits of cuddling:

1. Lowers blood pressure: When you hug someone your heartbeat tends to go up. It raises the level of oxytocin which affects the hormones that keep you at the ready for action and allow our blood pressure to drop, hence reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

2. Relieves pain: It is rightly said that when you are in love, you forget pain - thank your oxytocin. While it has been found that this effect of oxytocin is particularly helpful for women in labor, it has implications on your day to day life also. For instance when you jam your finger on the door, you rub it against your other hand. Such self-stimulation also triggers release of oxytocin and helps you to deal with the pain.

3. Reduces stress hormones: Cortisol, which is a stress hormone can be harmful for you. It has the potential to affect your mood, weight and heart. While some of these hormones are required when you need to react in a hurry in a fight-or-flight situation, poor stress management can keep cortisol levels high even when you don’t need it.

4. Makes you feel Sexy: When you cuddle, you get close to your partner physically which paves way to a heightened sex. And a satisfying sex is good for your mind and body. Not just intercourse but cuddling can lead to some fun sexy moment or even relaxing.

5. Enhances communication: When you are in a relationship, it is important to have good communication. But that is what many couples miss and that is why cuddling plays a big part in enhancing the bond. Sometimes non-verbal way of saying that ‘you need him/her’ is enough to ignite the lost flame or bond.

6. Increases happiness: Cuddling releases oxytocin, which is a feel-good hormone. The release of these hormones increases overall happiness, say psychologist. Besides it also releases endorphins which are the same hormones released after a good workout or when you eat chocolates.